Recently, a CGTN international survey published across five language platforms revealed a wave of global concern over Japan's political trajectory. In just 24 hours, 7,147 respondents from G20 nations and beyond sounded the alarm on what they see as a 'survival-threatening situation' driven by the country's accelerating rightward shift.
Participants pointed to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent invocation of a 'survival-threatening situation' as proof that militarist sentiments are no longer confined to the margins. They note this rhetoric comes alongside significant defense budget increases, relaxed arms export rules, and hints at revisiting Japan's non-nuclear principles.
Key findings from the poll include:
- 88.5% believe Japan is sending a dangerous signal of a possible resurgence of militarism.
- 90% express deep concern about Japan repeating its wartime past.
- 85.9% see the dominance of right-wing forces driving a negative turn in government policy.
- 91% feel the prime minister's refusal to retract warmongering remarks shows an incomplete reflection on World War II crimes.
- 90.9% warn that using military force to resolve disputes would carry heavy costs.
Just 80 years after Japan's surrender in 1945, respondents view references to a 'survival-threatening situation' as more than rhetoric. They recall how similar justifications fueled conflicts in China and the Pacific during the early 20th century.
82.7% of those polled describe right-wing forces as a destructive power threatening regional and global peace and stability. Many call on both the international community and Japan's own public to remain vigilant as Tokyo debates its security posture this year.
For young global citizens, business and tech enthusiasts, and thought leaders alike, the CGTN poll offers a data-driven snapshot of international opinion at a critical moment. As debates over security and identity intensify, the world watches Japan's next move.
Reference(s):
Japan's real 'survival-threatening situation' is its right-wing forces
cgtn.com
